M.C.A. Hogarth's "Princes' Game" series is peculiar and compelling (and peculiarly compelling) space opera. I really like it [...] because of its determination to make the reader productively uncomfortable. - Tor.com

The Alliance has sent twelve ambassadors to the Chatcaavan Empire; all twelve returned early, defeated. None of their number have been successful at taking that brutal empire to task for their violations of the treaty. None have survived the vicious court of a race of winged shapechangers, one maintained by cruelty, savagery and torture.

Lisinthir Nase Galare is the Alliance's thirteenth emissary. A duelist, an esper and a prince of his people, he has been sent to bring an empire to heel. Will it destroy him, as it has his predecessors? Or can one man teach an empire to fear... and love?

Caution: This book is violent and contains mature/difficult situations. Readers who prefer spoilers before engaging with triggers may want to read the Reader's Guide: Princes' Guide Summaries first.